Attraction Guide: Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site, Little Rock, United States

Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site Guide

Walk Through History: Witness the Courage and Resilience at Little Rock Central High School Guide

Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site stands as a powerful reminder of the struggle for civil rights in America. This iconic school was the site of the 1957 desegregation crisis, when nine African American students, known as the "Little Rock Nine," bravely faced intense opposition as they attempted to integrate the all-white school. Today, the site serves as a museum and educational center, preserving the history of this pivotal moment and inspiring visitors to reflect on the ongoing pursuit of equality and justice. The history of Little Rock Central High School is inextricably linked to the Civil Rights Movement. In 1954, the Supreme Court ruled in Brown v. Board of Education that segregation in public schools was unconstitutional. However, resistance to desegregation was fierce in many parts of the South. In 1957, Arkansas Governor Orval Faubus deployed the National Guard to prevent the Little Rock Nine from entering Central High School. President Dwight D. Eisenhower intervened, sending in federal troops to ensure the students' safety and enforce the court order. The events at Little Rock Central High School captured the nation's attention and became a symbol of the struggle for civil rights. Visitors to Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site can take a guided tour of the school, led by National Park Service rangers. The tour provides a detailed account of the events of 1957 and explores the historical context of the desegregation crisis. You can also visit the visitor center, which features exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia presentations that tell the story of the Little Rock Nine and the Civil Rights Movement. While there isn't a specific culinary tradition associated with the site itself, consider exploring the nearby restaurants in the historic district for a taste of Southern cuisine.